Celebrating the Legacy of Helen Lewis

Join us to celebrate the legacy of Helen Lewis: dancer, choreographer, and Holocaust survivor who became a pioneering figure in contemporary dance in Northern Ireland.

At this event:

• Hear about the Helen Lewis Bursaries (a new grants scheme for dance artists in Northern Ireland that The Crescent piloted in 2025) including hearing from some of the first Bursary recipients.

• Help us welcome new artwork to The Crescent, by Sarah Longley, a response to Michael Longley’s poem Ghetto.

• Watch a new short, solo performance by Maiden Voyage Dance, accompanied by Harpist Ursula Burns.

• See a physical sculpture piece led by Philip Johnston, with Brenda McKee's dance class, L'Âge d’Or.

• Light refreshments will be served. 

The presentation part of the evening will start soon after 5pm and will last approximately 45 minutes. 

Then we’ll offer light refreshments and some mingling time, including an opportunity to speak to The Crescent’s staff and Associates about the Helen Lewis Bursaries.

It will be possible to make a donation at the event. We accept donations by card, cheque or cash. It is also possible to donate when you register to attend the event. 

(We’d be so grateful if you registered as spaces are limited/for catering purposes).

A brief introduction to the Helen Lewis Bursaries

In October 2025, The Crescent opened the Helen Lewis Bursaries programme for a period of 2 months: to support and develop dance in Northern Ireland, via small flexible grants. Applicants could apply for up to £500. 

The Awards scheme is made possible by individual donations. Many of the individuals involved have a direct connection to Helen Lewis, and in honour of her legacy seek to support the dance sector in Northern Ireland.  A number of donors are listed below. Some wish to remain anonymous.  

Maddy Tongue - Robin Lewis and Sarah Chin - Michael Lewis and Petra Nattland - Gloria Patton - Philip Johnston - Jane Mooney - Nicola Curry - Maiden Voyage Dance  - St. Dominic's P. P .U. - Billy Kohner  - Killinchy Probus Club 

At the end of December 2025, ten applicants were awarded a Bursary. With your support, we seek to continue the Awards into 2026. 

To make a donation to the Helen Lewis Bursaries click here.